MANILA, Philippines — The Palace on Monday expressed support for the nationwide peace rally organized by the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), saying that it hopes to achieve “unity” through the event amid the escalating rift between the two leaders.

In a statement, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said government agencies are prepared to assist in ensuring the orderly conduct of the assemblies, including maintaining peace, managing traffic, and providing emergency services.

“Walang duda ang aming paniniwala na magiging mapayapa, matiwasay at makabuluhan ang mga pagtitipon sa araw na ito,” Bersamin said.

He added that the government hopes the gathering will provide a platform for constructive discussion on issues affecting the country.

“Higit sa lahat, umaasa kami na ang mga ipapahayag na mga opinyon ay makakatulong sa paglilinaw sa mga usaping kinakaharap ng ating bansa at maghahatid sa atin sa tunay na pagkakaisa na ating inaasam,” he said.

To accommodate the event, Malacañang announced the suspension of work in government offices and classes at all levels in Manila and Pasay. 

The Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MMDRRMC) raised its alert status to “red” in anticipation of a large turnout. Authorities estimate that 500,000 to 1 million participants will gather at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila, with other assemblies expected nationwide.

Personnel from law enforcement, traffic management, and emergency services have been deployed to ensure public safety and manage the expected crowds.

Several INC clusters are also manning local peace rallies in their respective regions aside from the Manila rally.

The INC event, billed as a peace rally, is a gathering in support of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s position to stop moves to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte, his former running mate during the 2022 elections, though they severed ties less than halfway through their terms.

Duterte is facing three separate impeachment complaints stemming from issues related to betrayal of public trust, graft, and corruption, among others.

She recently threatened to assassinate Marcos, the First Lady, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

A fourth impeachment complaint is currently in the pipeline against the embattled Duterte as several groups back its filing.